Process Engineering Technician

Location: Everett, WA

The Sheet Metal Process Technician is responsible for the setup, operation, programming, and teardown of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including an IPG fiber laser, press brake, PEM insertion machine, sander, and related machinery. This role will utilize Radan CAD/CAM software to program laser cutting operations and optimize material nesting layouts to maximize yield and minimize scrap. Prior experience with CAD/CAM or nesting software is a plus. The ideal candidate combines strong mechanical aptitude with a commitment to quality, safety, and efficiency.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Equipment Setup & Teardown
Perform complete setup and teardown of sheet metal fabrication equipment, including the IPG fiber laser, press brake, PEM insertion machine, belt sander, and ancillary tools
Install, adjust, and verify tooling, fixtures, and work-holding devices to drawing specifications prior to production runs
Conduct pre-operation inspections and functional checks on all assigned equipment to ensure safe and proper working order
Complete accurate setup documentation, including run logs, material lot tracking, and tooling records
Execute equipment changeovers efficiently to minimize downtime between production runs
Perform post-run teardown, clean equipment and work areas, and return tooling to designated storage locations

IPG Fiber Laser Operation & Programming
Program the IPG 1kW fiber laser using Radan CAD/CAM software, including part geometry import, tool path generation, and cut parameter selection on a 4x4 capacity cutting bed.
Develop and optimize nesting layouts to maximize material utilization and minimize scrap across a variety of sheet sizes and thicknesses
Select and validate cut parameters (power, speed, assist gas, focus position) for various materials including mild steel, stainless steel, and aluminum
Monitor laser cutting operations, identify anomalies, and make real-time adjustments to maintain part quality
Manage and maintain the Radan program library, including revision control and archiving of approved programs

Press Brake Operation
Set up and operate the press brake using appropriate tooling (punches and dies) for specified bend angles, radii, and material gauges
Interpret engineering drawings and bend sequences to produce accurate formed parts within tolerance
Perform first-article inspections and in-process checks using calipers, angle gauges, and other measurement tools
Adjust back gauges, crowning, and tonnage settings as required for consistent results

PEM Insertion Machine & Hardware Installation
Set up and operate the PEM insertion press to install threaded fasteners, studs, standoffs, nuts, and other hardware into sheet metal components
Select correct tooling heads and verify proper installation per engineering specifications and hardware manufacturer requirements
Inspect installed hardware for proper seating, thread engagement, and pull-out strength

Finishing & Sanding Operations
Operate belt and/or disc sanders to deburr, blend welds, and finish sheet metal surfaces to specified surface finish requirements
Use hand deburring tools and files as needed to prepare parts for downstream operations or final inspection

Quality & Continuous Improvement
Perform first-article and in-process inspections using precision measurement tools; document results and disposition nonconforming parts
Identify and communicate opportunities to reduce scrap, improve nesting efficiency, or streamline setup procedures
Participate in root cause analysis for recurring quality issues and implement corrective actions
Support 5S, lean manufacturing, and continuous improvement initiatives within the factory

Safety & Compliance
Operate all equipment in strict compliance with company safety policies, OSHA regulations, and machine-specific lockout/tagout (LOTO) procedures
Use required personal protective equipment (PPE) at all times, including safety glasses, hearing protection, gloves, and steel-toed footwear
Report near-misses, unsafe conditions, and equipment deficiencies to supervision immediately

Work Environment/Physical Requirements
Frequent standing, walking, and bending
Lift and carry up to 50 lbs regularly
Fine motor dexterity for tooling and setups
Extended periods of standing at machines
Exposure to noise, metal dust, fumes, and laser light

QUALIFICATIONS

Required
3+ years of hands-on experience in sheet metal fabrication, including setup and operation of laser cutting, press brake, or related equipment
Proficiency with Radan or equivalent CAD/CAM nesting/programming software is a plus.
Ability to read and interpret engineering drawings, GD&T, and bill of materials
Proficiency with precision measurement tools: calipers, micrometers, angle gauges, and height gauges
Strong understanding of material properties, gauges, and sheet metal fabrication processes
Solid mechanical aptitude and troubleshooting skills for equipment and process issues
High school diploma or GED

Preferred
Direct experience programming and operating IPG fiber laser systems
Experience with PEM insertion equipment and fastener hardware standards
Familiarity with lean manufacturing principles, 5S, and continuous improvement methodologies
Vocational training, apprenticeship, or associate degree in manufacturing technology or related field
Experience working in an ISO-certified or otherwise quality-regulated manufacturing environment

Experience in sanitary weld is a plus